Metro Nashville Ramps Up Efforts Against Shoplifting in 2025

News Summary

In 2025, Metro Nashville is intensifying its fight against shoplifting, with 265 arrests reported by the Metro Nashville Police Department’s Organized Retail Crime Unit. With significant felony and misdemeanor charges, the unit collaborates with local businesses to reduce retail crime. The alarming case of a young woman accused of stealing over $50,000 in items highlights the serious community impact and the ongoing commitment of local law enforcement to improve safety and security in Nashville’s retail environment.

Metro Nashville Ramps Up Efforts Against Shoplifting in 2025

In the vibrant heart of Metro Nashville, the battle against shoplifting is gaining significant momentum as the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) releases its latest statistics for the year 2025. So far this year, the MNPD’s Organized Retail Crime Unit has made a notable 265 arrests in connection to shoplifting incidents, showcasing their dedication to tackling these crimes head-on.

Breaking Down the Numbers

Among those arrested, there are 64 felony charges and 142 misdemeanor charges, reflecting the serious nature of these offenses and the commitment the police have towards prosecuting offenders, particularly those who engage in repeated criminal behavior.

The MNPD is clear about their mission—their goal is to significantly reduce not just shoplifting, but the broader scope of organized retail crime that impacts local businesses. To achieve this, they have adopted a proactive approach. This includes working closely with local law enforcement, business owners, and employees to identify trends and share vital information. This collaboration is essential for dismantling operations that target retail establishments.

An Ongoing Effort

Detectives within the Organized Retail Crime Unit are devoted to supporting business owners and employees by helping them to recognize and prevent theft. They study patterns of shoplifting to ensure that stores are better equipped to safeguard their products and profits.

The Case of a Serial Thief

One of the most notorious cases in recent months involves a young woman named Melissa Mayes. At just 25 years old, she has already made headlines after being apprehended for organized retail crime. Mayes had been on the run for approximately seven months, hiding from law enforcement due to multiple theft warrants against her.

Mayes, along with her sister Myiesha Mayes, was previously reported for stealing thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise from Nashville stores. Since the initial investigations, new charges have been added to her record. She was recently involved in thefts with an accomplice named Orlexus Elliott, who herself has been charged with 22 shoplifting offenses dating back to 2023.

High-Value Theft

Melissa Mayes is accused of stealing a staggering $8,633 worth of items from a Sunglass Hut located inside Macy’s. Reports indicate that her overall theft activity amounts to over $50,000 in stolen goods, which includes high-end sunglasses and beauty products. This troubling trend of large-scale theft raises serious concerns about the safety and security of local retail environments.

Legal Consequences

As it stands, Mayes faces 18 counts in total, which comprises 15 felony and three misdemeanor charges related to organized retail crime. Her apprehension came while she was allegedly attempting to commit theft at a Walgreens, leading police to track her down to another location where they finally made the arrest.

Behind Bars

Currently, Melissa Mayes is being held on a significant $115,500 bond according to Davidson County Sheriff’s Office records. Her associate, Orlexus Elliott, also has a tumultuous legal history, including 58 prior offenses since 2016. Elliott, with a bond set at $102,500, has been known to sell stolen merchandise through social media and has been recorded on surveillance during various theft incidents.

Community Impact

The ongoing investigations and arrests underscore the importance of community vigilance and collaboration in keeping Nashville’s retail streets safe and secure. With the MNPD firmly in the trenches, it appears Metro Nashville is committed to making inroads against retail crime in this new year.

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Additional Resources

• WSMV: More Than 250 Arrested in Nashville Shoplifting Charges
• WKRN: Woman Charged in Organized Retail Crime Trio
• Hoodline: Nashville Woman Arrested for Shoplifting Over $50,000
• WSMV: Nashville Woman Accused of Chronic Stealing
• WGNS Radio: Chronic Thief’s Shopping Spree
• Wikipedia: Shoplifting
• Google Search: Shoplifting
• Google Scholar: Shoplifting
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Shoplifting
• Google News: Shoplifting